On 24 January 2025, Lighthouse Bistro was filled with warmth and appreciation as SMOU hosted the Volunteers Appreciation Dinner to recognise the dedication of its volunteers. The event was a way to appreciate the 62 members who contributed their time and effort to SMOU Care and Share events in 2024. While 38 volunteers attended the dinner, the appreciation extended to every member who had played a part in supporting the community.

The evening began with SMOU Emeritus General Secretary Thomas Tay and SMOU General Secretary Mary Liew engaging with volunteers. As the attendees settled in, Young SMOU (YSMOU) Chairman Dominic Yong gave a short greeting before inviting Sister Mary Liew to deliver her welcome address. 

In her speech, Mary expressed deep gratitude to the volunteers for their contributions and encouraged them to continue serving the community. She also shared that as Singapore celebrates SG60 this year, upcoming Care and Share events will include SG60 elements to commemorate this national milestone. Looking ahead, she highlighted SMOU’s 75th anniversary next year and extended her well wishes to those still sailing, reminding them to stay safe at sea. 

A special appreciation video was played to thank the volunteers for their contributions in 2024. Highlighting their contributions to various initiatives, the video served as a heartfelt reminder of the meaningful impact they had on others. Throughout the evening, conversations flowed naturally as volunteers connected, shared experiences, and built new relationships—especially those meeting for the first time. 

The evening included a heartfelt gift presentation ceremony to honour the volunteers. SMOU Vice President Siti Nellisa, Assistant General Secretary Farhan Fadillah, Secretary Terence Tan, and YSMOU Chairman Dominic Yong presented appreciation gifts to recognise their contributions.

As the evening came to a close, volunteers left with smiles, feeling valued and motivated to continue making a difference. The Volunteers Appreciation Dinner was a heartfelt gathering that brought people together to celebrate their contributions and the strong spirit of giving within the SMOU community.